catbird seat

noun

, Informal.

1. an advantageous situation or condition:

   His appointment as acting dean put him in the catbird seat.

Word History and Origins

Origin of catbird seat¹

An Americanism dating back to 1940–45

Idioms and Phrases

A situation of advantage or superiority, as in His promotion put Charles in the catbird seat . This term is thought to allude to that noisy bird's habitual high perch. It was popularized in the 1940s by sportscaster Red Barber.

Example Sentences

A year later, it is Mr. Trump who sits in the catbird seat with a massive polling lead in Iowa and it is Mr. DeSantis who is looking to reignite his star power.

From Washington Times

In the meantime, Catalent and Thermo are "in the catbird seat" leading the market due to their existing capabilities, said Barclays analyst Luke Sergott.

From Reuters

Sen. Murray will be in the catbird seat making decisions on what legislation is included in the appropriations bills for the benefit of the country and our state.

From Seattle Times

“If Biden can hold on to a Democratic Senate, then he’ll be in the catbird seat to run for reelection,” said Douglas Brinkley, a presidential historian at Rice University.

From Washington Post

I’ll welcome this feat From my sweet catbird seat For as long as he keeps me well fed.

From Scientific American